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London is jam-packed with interesting things to do but sometimes, you just need to get out of the city for a change of pace. Luckily, London has so many fun things to do outside of it that can be easily reached with public transport. From iconic historical sites to magical castles, here are our expert picks on the best things to do outside London:
- Things to do less than an hour from London
- Things to do less than two hours from London
- Things to do less than three hours from London
Things to do less than an hour from London
1. Windsor Castle
Great for: Royal family fans
Address: Winkfield Road, Windsor Park, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Distance from London: 54 mins with public transport or an hour driving
A royal residence of the British royal family and the stage of many royal weddings, Windsor Castle is bursting with history going back centuries. It's the world's oldest and largest occupied castle and lucky for us, is open to visitors year-long.
2. Legoland Windsor Resort
Great for: Families
Address: Winkfield Road, Windsor Park, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Distance from London: 45 mins with public transport or an hour driving
A fun thing to do outside London is to spend the day at Legoland, one of the UK's most beloved theme parks. Mainly geared towards little ones it's a great way to reward them if they've been well-behaved at all the countless museums and art galleries you've visited during your time in the city. At the park, you can have fun on the family-friendly rides and even watch live shows and films.
3. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Great for: Boy Wizard fans
Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
Distance from London: 56 mins with public transport or about an hour driving
One of the most popular things to do outside London is visiting the Harry Potter studios (so expect a lot of people). The ultimate experience for Potterheads, there are exhibitions, behind-the-scenes content and interactive activities that make the whole experience one for the books with the staff always nearby to answer any questions. If you're feeling thirsty, make sure to order a butter beer!
4. Kew Gardens
Great for: People with green thumbs
Address:
Distance from London: 40 mins driving
Sprawling gardens where you could easily spend hours so make sure to be organised about managing your time. Kew Gardens is said to be the most biodiverse place on earth where you can wander 500 acres of woodland and check out the world's biggest seed conservation project, Wakehurst.
Things to do less than two hours from London
5. Ruislip Lido
Great for: Nature lovers
Address: Between Ruislip Common, Ruislip Woods, and Poor's Field.
Distance from London: An hour and 10 minutes with public transport or an hour driving
We all know London is a busy that can be pretty hectic so this 60-acre lake is a godsend when you crave a taste of the great outdoors. At Ruislip Lido, you'll find beaches, a kid's pool, a kid's play area, nature trails and even a miniature railway.
6. Canterbury
Great for: Fans of Olde England
Address: Canterbury, Kent
Distance from London: 2 hours driving or an hour by train
Offering a far slower change of pace, Canterbury offers a trip back to medieval times from London. With its cobblestone streets, historic cathedrals and traditional pubs, it's easily explored in just a day. We suggest trying to catch a show at the Marlow Theatre which showcases the best in musicals, operas and comedy shows.
Things to do less than three hours from London
7. Stonehenge
Great for: History buffs
Address: Winkfield Road, Windsor Park, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Distance from London: 2 and a half hours with public transport or 2 hours driving
One of the world's most iconic historical sites lies just a couple of hours outside of London. Stonehenge was one of the very first sites in the UK to be made a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its prehistoric history going back 5,000 years. This impressive structure took over 1,000 years to build with the final changes being made in the Bronze Age. If you're into your history or just want some fresh air, we highly recommend taking a trip there and seeing it up close.
8. Seven Sisters Cliffs
Great for: Nature lovers
Address: Exceat, near Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 4AD
Distance from London: 2 and a half hours driving or by train
Another great nature spot within reach of London. Once you get to Seaford, you can take your pick of nature trails that offer incredible sea views and bird-watching opportunities. Our favourite is the South Downs Way National Trail that's 100 miles long, stretching from Eastbourne to Winchester, and offers stunning nautical views of lighthouses and nearby bays.
9. Bath
Great for: Some R&R
Address: Bath, Somerset
Distance from London: 2 and a half hours driving or an hour and a half by train
Another great choice for a day trip from London is Bath. Famous for its spas and Roman influence, it's great to wander about and soak up the Georgian architecture and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Will You Head Out Of The City?
We hope our list of fun things to do outside London has inspired you to travel outside of the city to see a different side to England. Whether you're into history, nature or theme parks our list has something for you!
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